NCLEX in Washington: wait for the Commission’s approval before you register
Washington reverses the order used in many states. The Nursing Commission approves your education and application first, then emails you approval to register with Pearson VUE, and only then does Pearson VUE send your ATT. Registering too early is the mistake to avoid.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the Nursing Commission’s NCLEX licensure requirements and third-party summaries. Fee amounts are as reported; confirm them on nursing.wa.gov.
The path for a new graduate
Complete the application online through the Department of Health and pay the fee. The Commission's page describes paying online or by check.
If you graduated from a Washington program, the program director submits your information to the Commission. The Commission must receive it before it can grant eligibility to test.
Applicants with an out-of-state address must complete an FBI fingerprint background check, which the Department of Health runs through the Washington State Patrol and the FBI.
After reviewing your application, the Commission emails you approval to register with Pearson VUE. Register and pay $200 only then.
Pearson VUE emails your ATT and lets you schedule your date and time.
Single-state or multistate
The Commission’s page describes a single-state license, which allows practice in Washington only, and a multistate license with its own fee. Because Washington will be your initial US state of licensure if you apply by examination, check which license type you qualify for.
Common questions
Is there a temporary permit?
A temporary practice permit is reported to be available while the FBI background check is pending. Confirm eligibility and conditions with the Commission.
Is there a Washington-specific training requirement?
Third-party summaries say applicants must attest to completing AIDS education training. The Commission’s application will state the current requirement.